Size Condensate Return

Before you begin!
If condensate return temperature is 200°F or above (at sea level) check available NPSH to avoid potential cavitation problems.

Pump Flow Rate

Condensate pumps are typically sized at three times (3x) normal condensing or evaporation rate. These guidelines are based upon design and operating experience. However, upon proper application, units can be sized at two times (2x) the condensing or evaporation rate.

Pump Flow Rate (3x condensing rate) 1
0 gallons ⁄ min (GPM)
Pump Flow Rate (2x condensing rate) 2
0 gallons ⁄ min (GPM)

Minimum Receiver Size

Minimum Receiver Size is determined from Pump Flow Rate. Make sure the inlet height is lower or equal to existing height on gravity return systems—water does not run uphill! 3

Minimum Receiver Size (3x condensing rate)1
0 gallons
Minimum Receiver Size (2x condensing rate)2
0 gallons

Pump Discharge Pressure

Pump discharge pressure includes a safety margin of +10 PSIG.

feet (of head)
psig

If you enter "0" (zero), the calculator assumes the proper diameter for discharge pipe (velocity = 10 feet ⁄ second or less) and includes a safety margin of 10 PSIG.

If you do not know this value, use the Pipe Friction Calculator to determine resistence of piping (expressed in feet of head).

feet (of head)
Pump Discharge Pressure
0 psig
  • Condensate pumps are typically sized at three times normal condensing or evaporation rate. These guidelines are based upon design and operating experience.
  • Upon proper application, units can be sized at two times the condensing or evaporation rate.
  • Make sure the inlet height is lower or equal to existing height on gravity return systems. Water does not run uphill!
  • If value of "0" entered, calculator assumes proper diameter for discharge pipe (velocity of 10 ft ⁄ sec or less) and includes a safety margin of 10 psig. If value not known, use Pipe Friction Calculator to determine resistence of piping in feet of head.
  • Pump flow rate is less than 0.5 gallons/min (GPM). Contacting your Shipco® representative is advised.
  • Pump flow rate is greater than 500 gallons/min (GPM). Contacting your Shipco® representative is advised.